East Coast

Beginning Biodynamics: Earth, Water, & the Living FarmNovember 14–15, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. dailyHorn Farm Center, York, Pennsylvania

What changes when we approach a farm or garden as a living whole, and begin to learn from what we observe there?

We will discuss and make the yarrow and valerian biodynamic preparations. The other compost preparations that were buried in the October class will be unearthed, and the subject of preparation storage will be covered. We will make and show the use of the biodynamic insect pepper, and time will be given for project presentations for those on the certificate track. The subjects of elemental beings and the biodynamic cycle of the year will round out the day. Megan Durney will cover the role of the honeybee in the farm organism and the household of nature, and lead a visit to our apiary.

The biodynamic horn silica preparation influences color, flavor, nutritional, and keeping quality of produce and forage. Mac Mead leads the class in making and using this preparation. We will also dig up the horn manure preparation that was buried in the September class and make the biodynamic nettle preparation. Biodynamic tree paste will also be made and applied to our fruit trees.

Using barrel compost, a biodynamic compound preparation, is an efficient way to boost soil fertility. Mac Mead leads the class through every step of making this valuable substance, and how to use it. Mac also covers weed, pest, and fungus control, using biodynamic preparations and peppers. Seeding methods and supportive cultural practices in the greenhouse will be covered as well as detailed planning of the gardening year.

In the morning Craig Holdrege explores how to work with the living dynamic qualities of plants and animals to better understand the world around us. In the afternoon, Sherry Wildfeuer, the founder of the Stella Natura planting calendar, explains how the calendar is created, what it tells us, and how we can use it to learn to work with nature’s rhythms and forces.